Sample the Best of Santiago

Santiago is a busy, metropolitan city situated in a central valley between the Andes and the coast, boasting one of the most dazzling backdrops of any capital city in the world. The Mapocho River crosses the city from east to west.

About one third of Chile's population lives in Santiago which is the perfect fusion of modern style and traditional colonialism. There are hundreds of sights to see and places to visit so it makes sense to get your bearings and make the most of your stay, however long or short it is. .

The Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport is the main point of entry and you can easily catch a bus or taxi to the city centre. If you are arriving by train you will find yourself at the Estación Central Station which consists of two beautiful buildings linked by a giant metal cupola.

Travelling east from the station you will find the European influenced neighbourhoods of República and Dieciocho. There are several mansions and palaces which now various institutions and foundations but are well worth a look if you're passing by.

Nearby lies the Brasil neighbourhood which was revitalised during the 1990s by artists and craftsmen and now has a bohemian and creative feel. There are a plethora of boutiques and restaurants to keep you occupied.

Continue slightly further east along the Alameda and you come to Santiago's civic centre where the main ministerial buildings and Presidential Palace are located.

The city centre and business districts are a stone's throw away and you will know when you're there as the crowds grow larger, the traffic busier and the buildings taller.

In the centre of the city you can find the Former National Congress, the Pre-Colombian Art Museum and the Courts of Justice. The Plaza de Armas is framed by the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Central Post Office, the Museum of National History and the Town Hall.

The neighbourhood of París-Londres is a hidden jewel in the city centre. Completed in 1929 it has remained free from modern buildings. The narrow and winding streets give you a sense of what Santiago was like in times gone by and this corner of the city is ideal for peaceful strolls and interesting sights.

The wooded Forest Park extends to the east and it is here you will find the National Museum of Fine Arts in the neighbourhood of Bellas Artes. Crossing the Mapocho river leads you to one of Santiago's most traditional neighbourhoods La Chimba which is worthy of a visit for an authentic taste of Chilean life.

If you strive for something besides the hustle and bustle of the city, Santiago is well appointed to cater for outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding volcanic landscape is home to some stunning natural wildlife and the Pacific Ocean is a few kilometres away. Close proximity to the great outdoors means you can book flights to Santiago and also have time to visit surrounding areas if you so wish.